HRAWI Celebrates 75 Years of Leadership and Excellence in Hospitality Industry

Industry Watch | February 5, 2025 | News

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India)

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI commenced its 75th year on February 3, 2025, celebrating a rich legacy of leadership, advocacy and industry excellence. Established in 1951, HRAWI has played a crucial role in shaping the hospitality landscape of Western India. Representing over 1,500 hotels and restaurants across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, HRAWI has been instrumental in driving policy reforms, industry growth and sustainable hospitality practices.

Over the past seven decades, HRAWI has set numerous benchmarks, including being the first hospitality association to receive ISO certification, securing trademark registration and introducing IHQS – an independent hospitality qualification system.

Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI said, “Our 75th year is a testament to the resilience, innovation and commitment of our members. HRAWI has been at the forefront of industry transformation, ensuring that the hospitality sector thrives amid evolving challenges. The Association has been instrumental in designing hospitality education syllabi for Mumbai University, NCHMCT and MSBTE-affiliated colleges. Additionally, it has played a crucial role in urban planning by helping identify tourism zones and residential-commercial areas in Mumbai. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to promoting growth, advocating for progressive policies and strengthening India’s position as a global tourism hub.”

Over the decades, HRAWI has collaborated with the Government and industry stakeholders, facilitating initiatives such as skill development programs, regulatory advocacy and sustainability efforts. As a part of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), HRAWI continues to influence national hospitality policies. The Association has been led by esteemed industry stalwarts who have left an indelible mark on the sector. Their leadership has guided HRAWI in navigating economic shifts, regulatory changes and technological advancements.

Pradeep Shetty, Spokesperson, HRAWI said, “Our journey has been one of progress, innovation and perseverance. The hospitality industry is a key driver of India’s economy, and as we move forward, our focus remains on enhancing Ease of Doing Business, advocating tax rationalization and promoting an inclusive and sustainable hospitality ecosystem. HRAWI will continue to champion initiatives that empower our members and contribute to the growth of Indian tourism.”

HRAWI has hosted regional conventions across Lavasa, Pune, Colombo and Nashik, focusing on themes such as sustainable development, global tourism and industry resilience. In 2024, the Association launched the ‘Empowering Hospitality Conclave & Awards’ series, successfully hosting events in Pune, Ahmedabad and Nagpur. These conclaves have become key platforms for knowledge exchange, industry networking and policy discussions.

Pradeep Shetty, further added, “With a focus on sustainability, HRAWI is planning to sign MoU with AIC-BARC to implement solid waste management technologies in hotels and resorts. In partnership with FSSAI, the Association has trained and certified close to 3,300 hospitality professionals in food safety under the FoSTaC program. Additionally, HRAWI has promoted green initiatives by collaborating with organizations like IGBC, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.”

Jimmy Shaw, further added, “As we step into our 75th year, HRAWI remains dedicated to promoting industry growth, advocating for policy reforms and driving sustainability. The Association is set to roll out special initiatives and commemorative events throughout the year, further strengthening its mission to elevate the hospitality sector. Our journey has been one of progress, innovation and perseverance and as we move forward, we will continue to champion initiatives that empower our members and contribute to the growth of Indian tourism. We will continue to be the voice of the hospitality sector, ensuring that our industry thrives in the years to come.”

Representing over 1,500 hotels and restaurants, HRAWI has been instrumental in driving policy reforms, industry growth and sustainable hospitality practices.

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